Radiator - fix or replace

[Doomsdaya]

Lately been having coolant leak problems with the 328i, first replaced thermostat housing, then waterpump & lastly the hose leading from radiator to thermostat housing.

Friday after work I drove to Dent Doctor to collect my merchandise on my way to LZ I noticed the temp needle wasn't sitting dead center, its about a mm off like so...



Anyway I did a pressure test on Saturday morning while the engine was cold & found a very small leak on the radiator just below the hose, looks like 1 of the fins is damage.

Now the last time the radiator was replaced was in 2008 which is about 63000km ago from Bmw. Question is can I get it fixed or just bite the bullet and replace it ?

 

[Ralf*]

FIX

 

[Peejay]

Bud 63000kms ago means that that radiator is still new. I think you should fix.

 

[Fordkoppie]

I have had an ally radiator repaired before, and it lasted till the day I sold the car.

So if it is not too big, I would say repair

 

[JayDrft]

My advice,

Price a new radiator as opposed to the repair costs...it may be a better option just to buy new if its a few hundred in difference.

My 2 cents....hope it helps.

Some time to replace, is cheaper than to repair....just as an additional pointer, do a compression test across ur cylinders to make sure ur head gasket isnt leaking any....this could also result in odd cooling.

 

[Pho3niX90]

Just replace it, the radiators aren't that expensive, plus it will give you peace of mind, rather than worrying if it will start leaking again on a long drive

 

[Doomsdaya]

Thanks guys, I was in doubt because as Heven said, its still fairly new. Will see what Silverton quotes me for repairing v/s price a new radiator & take it from there....

do a compression test across ur cylinders to make sure ur head gasket isnt leaking any....this could also result in odd cooling.

If the gasket was leaking, wouldn't there be water vapor in the exhaust ?

 

[Peejay]

Yes gasket leaking = vapour in the exhaust or oil and water mixing.